Sandhill crane hunt to be considered again by Tennessee wildlife commission

State wildlife officials will take public comment and the commission will decide whether to allow crane hunting when it meets in August. This is the second time in three years that the agency has pondered such a proposal.

The Tennessean reported the commission considered a sandhill crane hunt in 2011, but deferred action on the proposal.

Kentucky has a sandhill crane hunting season and is the only Southeastern state among 11 states nationwide that allow it.

The migratory birds have wingspans up to 6 feet. Tens of thousands of them descent on southeastern Tennessee each winter.

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency will take public comment until Aug. 10. The agency's website is http://www.state.tn.us/twra .